Top Philadelphia Festival Historic Spaces
Portico
Tucked within the extraordinary 55-acre Awbury Arboretum in Germantown, Portico is a hidden gem for weddings and events in Northwest Philadelphia. This peaceful, nature-filled venue is centered around the Francis Cope House, a 19th-century estate with Quaker roots, surrounded by meadows, woodlands, and gardens designed in the style of an English landscape by William Saunders—the same visionary behind the grounds of the U.S. Capitol. Portico offers a rare blend of historic charm and natural beauty in the heart of the city. Guests can dine beneath a graceful white tent overlooking the gardens, with use of the house, its columned portico, and the surrounding landscape. With a capacity of up to 160, it’s ideal for intimate weddings, mitzvahs, and milestone celebrations. Ceremonies and portraits can be set against a backdrop of shaded clearings, botanical gardens, wildflower meadows, and even a Secret Garden—each space offering its own storybook magic. For those looking to host a romantic outdoor wedding or celebration in Philadelphia, Portico at Awbury is a one-of-a-kind venue where elegance meets nature.
The Weitzman
Located on the most historic square mile in the country, the Weitzman is an architectural landmark that boasts 20,000 square feet of multi-purpose event space across five floors. The flagship space is a 7,000 square-foot ballroom with seating for 500 (reception for up to 700), floor-to-ceiling wrap-around windows, and the adjoining Toll Terrace. The indoor-outdoor space overlooks Independence Mall—the most historic square mile in the country—and offers a one-of-a-kind, panoramic view of the Philadelphia skyline.
ONE North Broad
ONE, at the majestic Masonic Temple, is a stunning world-renowned architectural wonder, featuring magnificent rooms based on themes of ancient architecture and sweeping grand staircases. The Grand Ballroom seats 250 for a sit-down dinner with dancing and 300 without a dance floor. Plus when combined with the Grand Foyer and Foyer Under the Stars, we can host 450 guests for receptions. On the second floor, Foyer Under the Stars can host an additional 200 guests for cocktail hour “under the stars” or 35 guests for an elegant seated dinner. Additional spaces such as the Library & Museum and John Wanamaker Room allow guest to enjoy the rich history and national treasures showcased. This National Historic Landmark, built in 1873, is central to the City of Brotherly Love … just one more reason why it is the perfect location for the perfect event!
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Make great art the centerpiece of your next special occasion. Give a toast from a grand balcony graced by seventeenth-century tapestries, mingle in a garden among Rodin’s classic bronzes, or dance the night away in the atrium of an Art Deco building. No matter the affair, the setting will be unforgettable at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Stunning spaces in our main building, the Ruth and Raymond G. Perelman Building, and the Rodin Museum offer an array of options for indoor and garden events of all sizes, from photo shoots to business meetings to formal weddings. Constellation Culinary Group, the Museum’s exclusive caterer, creates custom menus, offering food and drinks that are as spectacular as the setting. Entertaining with us also helps support our programs—all the more reason to celebrate.
Brooklyn Bowl - Philadelphia
Set in Philadelphia’s energetic Fishtown neighborhood, Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia spans 38,000 square feet across two floors, delivering a bold blend of live entertainment, elevated dining, and flexible event spaces. Guests experienced the perfect mix of energy and sophistication with concert-ready production, 24 bowling lanes, and acclaimed Blue Ribbon cuisine. From corporate gatherings and galas to social celebrations and after-parties, the venue offered a dynamic backdrop for up to 1,000 guests—pairing immersive lighting, built-in stage infrastructure, and local flavor for unforgettable events.
Billy Penn Studios
Our exceptional venue, located in the heart of historic Olde Kensington, offers a breathtaking setting for your special day. With a perfect blend of modern elegance and historic charm, our meticulously renovated industrial buildings provide a unique backdrop for your wedding celebration. Imagine exchanging vows under the majestic old-growth yellow pine beams, surrounded by the warm embrace of your loved ones. Our stunning 3-story atrium is the ideal space to create unforgettable memories and capture beautiful moments with your partner. Let us help you turn your wedding vision into reality. Contact us today and let our dedicated team assist you in planning the most extraordinary wedding at Billy Penn Events! From formal weddings and corporate events to all-night dance parties, Billy Penn Events is one of Philly’s top event venues. We offer three distinct spaces tailored to fit any event size with impeccable style and versatility. The building is named after the former occupant, the Billy Penn Corporation, operator of an an aluminum facility at 1516 N 5th St for many years. The oldest sections were constructed in Olde Kensington in the early 1900s as a lumber facility.
Cicala & Sorellina at The Divine Lorraine
Cicala and Sorellina are sister restaurants owned by the award-winning husband & wife team, Joe & Angela Cicala. Located on either side of the historic Philadelphia landmark, the Divine Lorraine Hotel, our unique spaces are the perfect backdrop for weddings, corporate gatherings, showers, and all other types of celebrations, whether formal or casual. Enjoy upscale authentic Southern Italian fine dining under the sparkling chandeliers of Cicala or hand-made Neapolitan pizza around our huge center bar in the bright and lively Sorellina. Your guests will be impressed by our house-cured salumi, authentic pastas, and handmade pastries, as well as our expert-crafted wine and cocktail program. We also have a variety of classes and demonstrations to be added on to any event, and we are always happy to customize the menu, layout, and decor to create the perfect gathering. With various spaces to book, including an expansive outdoor patio, we'll be sure to find the perfect spot for your next event.
Reading Terminal Market
Since forming an exclusive partnership with All About Events in 2011, Reading Terminal Market has become a top-tier destination for private events in Philadelphia. Conveniently located across the street from the Pennsylvania Convention Center and the Philadelphia Downtown Marriott, this iconic venue offers a one-of-a-kind setting for evening weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate celebrations, and non-profit galas, with the capacity to host up to 5,000 guests. Unlike traditional venues, Reading Terminal Market delivers a truly interactive dining experience, allowing guests to explore the vibrant culinary offerings that make the Market so unique. This immersive experience ensures an unforgettable event that cannot be replicated anywhere else on the East Coast. Please note: the venue is available for events beginning at 7 PM, as daytime and earlier events cannot be accommodated.
The Notary Hotel, Philadelphia, Autograph Collection
The Notary Hotel, Philadelphia, Autograph Collection offers event spaces for your next celebration in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. From expert event managers to inspiring venue options and luxury rooms, The Notary Hotel will help bring to life the wedding of your dreams. With the building dating back to the 1920s, this charming hotel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a perfect Philadelphia wedding location. The hotel features two distinct, restored ballrooms with original architectural accents, brass features, crystal chandeliers, and room to host up to 200+ guests for your ceremony, reception, and dancing. Our culinary team provides customized catering options ready to delight, and for extra convenience, reserve a block of rooms at the hotel for your out of town guests. Located within walking distance to historical sites, museums, and world class restaurants, you can truly host the entire wedding weekend under one roof.
Hill-Physick House
Built in 1786, this square, four-story brick house is the only free-standing Federal townhouse remaining in Society Hill. With its huge doorway fan light (the largest in any Pennsylvania residence in 1786) plus grand proportions and straight, classical lines, Physick House is an exceptional example of the Federal style. It is decorated with outstanding examples of French-influenced Neoclassic furnishings, popular during Dr. Physick's time in the house. The unusually large city garden is a serene and peaceful.
Vincent Forge Mansion
A unique historic event space beside picturesque French Creek, plus luxury accommodation for up to 22 guests. Vincent Forge Mansion has recently been updated with designer renovations and is only now being presented to the market! The Mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The earliest part of the property dates from 1700 representing one of the oldest inhabited structures in idyllic Chester County. The entire property has been renovated to the highest standards of taste and finish. The property sits in approximately 6 acres of manicured lawns, flower gardens and specimen trees. The south and west lawns offer space for Event Tenting to accommodate up to 150 guests. The Mansion itself comprises 7 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms and multiple reception rooms. A huge outdoor terrace, illuminated by torchieres, and several porches complete the Mansion accommodation. An adjacent cottage has a further 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with private patio and gardens, lovely for a Groom or Bride getting ready suite.
Renault Winery Resort
Renault Winery & Resort is a historic vineyard and destination resort in Egg Harbor City, New Jersey—just an hour from Philadelphia and Atlantic City. Founded in 1864, Renault is one of the oldest continually operating wineries in the country and now serves as a premier venue for weddings, social gatherings, and corporate events of all sizes. Spanning 240 acres, the resort blends old-world charm with modern amenities, offering breathtaking backdrops and full-service hospitality in every season. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, Renault provides a versatile canvas for unforgettable experiences. The resort features a wide range of event spaces, including the elegant Champagne Ballroom with glittering chandeliers, the vineyard-view Vineyard Ballroom, and outdoor ceremony locations like the Chateau Garden and Champagne Patio. Unique indoor spaces like Louie’s Lounge, the Historic Tasting Room, and the speakeasy-inspired spaces add character and charm to rehearsal dinners, welcome receptions, and after-parties. Guests enjoy boutique accommodations at Château Renault, indulgent dining from Executive Chef Georgeann Leaming, estate-crafted wines and champagnes, and immersive seasonal programming like Vintner Wonderland and Renaultberfest. Golf outings, wine tastings, chef’s dinners, and live entertainment make it easy to turn events into full resort experiences. With professional planning, curated packages, and a deep commitment to soulful hospitality, Renault Winery & Resort is where celebrations become timeless stories—rooted in tradition, elevated by experience.
Bohemia Manor Farm
Bohemia Manor Farm is a romantic winery and wedding venue in Chesapeake City, MD. This historical venue is tucked away on 440 acres and boasts modern luxury and scenic views of the Bohemia River. The venue has been beautifully restored and now features multiple venue spaces offering a fully customizable layout to fit anyone's specific wedding needs. The venue offers all inclusive packages and on site accommodations to enhance your destination wedding experience. Tie the knot on the lawn at the banks of the sparkling Bohemia River or alongside the natural beauty of the rolling vineyards. Host your reception at our newly remodeled Ballroom or our spacious Manor House overlooking the Bohemia River. The events team at Bohemia Manor Farm and looks forward to working with you to make your dream wedding happen at this stunning Maryland landmark.
Founders Grove
Experience the charm and grace of our historic wedding & event venue! Founders Grove is one of New Jersey’s most charming garden inspired wedding and event venues. A unique hidden gem, the farmhouse dates back to 1743, this preserved property once a farm has been restored and given a new purpose with the all new carriage house barn. Founders Grove hosts up to 180 guests with multiple indoor and outdoor ceremony options, an open air climate controlled modern farmhouse inspired gathering space, a historic farmhouse, secret gardens and more.
Prallsville Mills
Rustic meets refined at the incomparable Prallsville Mills. Set along the banks of the Delaware River and historic Tow Path, just one hour from both Philadelphia and New York City, this beautifully preserved, Industrial Age village in the quaint town of Stockton, NJ is exclusively yours for your event. Extensive lush grounds seamlessly lead guests from picturesque outdoor nooks, perfect for exchanging vows, to historic spaces within the village set to create timeless celebrations. Our Grist Mill, with its extensive wood beams and antique gear work, speak to a time of expert craftsmanship and make for a truly unique environment. In addition, the Saw Mill serves as an open rustic space for a casual, alfresco cocktail hour or laid back after party and whiskey bar lounge. The John Prall House, just steps away, offers intimate gathering spaces for your bridal party, along with a beautifully appointed private lounge, for couples to add those last final touches prior to their wedding ceremony. While the layout of the property sets the ideal stage for a beautifully curated microwedding, the Grist Mill can accommodate formally seated dinners of roughly 130 guests, and more for cocktail receptions. With breathtaking river views, textures and backdrops, the options are endless to create and share your love story with family and friends.